Kuto and Kanumera beaches | Sud Tourism New Caledonia

Must-see places

Part of the top 10 must-sees in New-Caledonia

Isle of Pines

Kuto Bay

Kuto Bay is a great coconut-fringed beach to the west of the île des Pins in southern New Caledonia. It stretches out for several kilometres. Back in the penal colony days, it was here that the prison administration made its home. A few remnants of the era remain near the wharf where Betico 2 passengers disembark. For anyone who’s visiting Île des Pins by boat, Kuto Bay is the first beach to check out. And what a beach it is!

Perfect for long walks, swimming is a breeze, and there’s plenty of space. Keep your eyes peeled! Loads of turtles make their appearance, to the delight of young and old alike. Easy to get to, calm and relaxing, Kuto Bay is a hit with both touring and recreational boaters. On the days when the cruise ships arrive, the beach suddenly comes alive. Lots of local craft and food stalls set up shop. You can catch traditional dance demonstrations, like the Pilou. It’s a chance to learn more about the Kunié culture, the inhabitants of the île des Pins, and to do a little souvenir shopping. When tourists head back on board in the late afternoon, the bay returns to its usual tranquillity. At the end of the day, Kuto Bay is the perfect spot to admire the sunset.

Kanuméra Bay

Kanuméra is a small cove dotted with coral reefs. Next door to Kuto Bay, it’s like a postcard scene come to life. Put on your snorkelling gear and swim around the big rock in the middle of the bay. You’ll come across all kinds of multicoloured fish. Climbing on the rock is a no-go, it’s a sacred site. No worries! From the water, the show is magical! After your aquatic adventure, linger on the beach or in the hotel bar. Come evening, when the tourist crowd clears out, a timeless and poetic atmosphere takes over. Kanuméra Bay is certainly the most romantic bay on the Île des Pins!

A must-do!

Savour the sunset colours with a drink in hand at Kou-Bugny’s bar, a dream spot facing the sea.

Franck, Tourist Office of Nouméa

Heading to Moro and Brosse Islets

Want to explore the fantastic islets of the Île des Pins? You’re in the right place! Several service providers offer day or half-day excursions to islet Moro and the islet Brosse, from the bays of Kuto and/or Kanuméra. On the agenda: exploring the seabed in a dream setting, tasting the best local produce, and having a friendly chat with your guide…

A typical tour starts at 9am with a tour of both bays, followed by turtle and ray watching (depending on their mood that day!). Then it’s off to explore the first islet by land and in the water. After that, you’ll head off to the second islet for a delicious lunch featuring local specialities, like lobster, lagoon fish, cassava fries, and coconut rice… The setting is top-notch, the dishes are mouthwatering, and the staff is attentive. Enough to make this day an unforgettable memory.

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Tucking in by the water

Numerous tourist establishments can be found around the bays of Kuto and Kanuméra. With their idyllic setting, warm welcome, and superbly located tables, our gîtes, hotels and tables d’hôtes contribute to the quality of your stay. Fancy lunch on the beach? The hotel Ouré Tera and Kou Bugny are the perfect spots! Do you prefer a more homely atmosphere? Sample the delicious cuisine at Relais de Kuberka, Nataiwatch or gîte des 3 banians. Don’t forget the small eateries like Chez Lylone or the camping Atchu…

Note

When cruise ships dock at Kuto Bay, you’ll find plenty of stalls offering grills, sandwiches, and local specialities at very reasonable prices. Don’t hold back!

Bays for sport!

Kuto and Kanuméra Beaches are ideal for chilling out on your mat in the shade of a coconut tree. But sports enthusiasts rest assured: there’s no better place to swim, kayak or have an epic snorkelling session. In Kanuméra Bay, nothing beats circling the big coral rock to encounter a colourful underwater world! The bay is quite protected, so it’s a doable activity even with kids! You can also rent paddleboards and transparent kayaks at the Ouré Tera hotel at the end of the bay.

In Kuto, the best plan is to slip into your swimsuit, grab your mask, snorkel, and flippers, and swim in search of turtles. There are a lot of them under the water, searching for food in the seagrass beds. But make sure that you respect this protected species. Don’t touch or bother them! Kuto Bay is long, very long. If you’re feeling sporty, a jog along the beach at sunset should satisfy your need to work up a sweat. Last but not least, Kuto Bay is the only bay on the Île des Pins where you can windsurf.

Good to know

The taboo Rock reigns at the heart of Kanuméra Bay (climbing it is forbidden).